The following blog post was written by Rebekah Lewin, assistant dean of admissions and financial aid

Every year at this time, the emails and phone calls to the Admissions Office start rolling in from prospective students. They usually begin something like this:

“I know I am late in the application cycle, but I am really interested in Simon. Is it too late to apply and still be offered admission?”

Let me use this post to offer some perspective and reassurance. We have had a Round 3 deadline for years, and it is an important round for us to finalize our incoming Full-Time MBA and MS cohorts. Each year we admit great Round 3 candidates, and this year will be no different. We still have spots available and are eager to see top candidates apply so that we can offer admission and finalize our class. There are also still merit-based scholarships available to competitive candidates.

So here is what I would suggest if you are applying by March 15:

Make sure you have done your homework and can answer the question, “Why Simon?” Be sure to offer a compelling case for your interest in our MBA or MS program. Just as importantly, help us understand what value you will add and contribute during your studies here. “Fit” is really important and should not be underestimated in your application materials.

Get organized with your supporting materials – transcripts, recommendation, etc. – to ensure that everything can be submitted in a timely manner. While you can submit your application online without having other materials submitted, the longer we have to wait for these supporting materials, the later we will begin the review of your application.

Full-time MBA candidates should register for Experience Simon Weekend on March 23-24. If you attend, you have the option to schedule your admissions interview. This is the only option for a candidate-initiated interview during our application process and is a great chance for 1:1 face time with one of our staff or alumni interviewers. We offer travel support and hotel accommodations to attendees who visit from out of town.

You don’t have to have a perfect application profile to be admitted, but you do need the self-awareness to understand your strengths and weaknesses and to articulate them for the Admissions Committee. The optional essay can be a way to provide an explanation if you had a low semester of grades during college or a gap in your résumé.

So take the next step in pursuing your career dreams andapply to Simon by March 15. We look forward to reviewing your application and getting to know you during the process!

As always, if you have questions about Simon, the application process, or our programs, feel free to reach out to our Admissions Office: admissions@simon.rochester.edu or 1-585-275-3533.